Best road trip around stunning Tasmania: complete guide

Tasmania has become one of the most popular road trip destinations for Australians and international tourists alike. This is largely thanks to the state’s untouched beauty, fascinating history and awesome adventure activities.

Use our 10-day Tasmania road trip guide to plan your travels! It can be modified to suit the number of days you have available and includes all the best sightseeing and camping spots. Plus, we’ve thrown in a heap of extra information like drive times, distances, the best season to travel and much more.

This particular route takes you through towns like Launceston, Hobart and Bruny Island. Along the way, you’ll visit some of Tasmania’s best sights such as the Bay of Fires, Freycinet National Park, Maria Island, Port Arthur and Cradle Mountain.

Total Distance: 1,208km | Recommended Days: from 10 - 14 days | Total Drive Time: 18 hours | Best Time to Visit: Between March-May (Autumn) or September-November (Spring)

Best road trip around Tasmania: 10 places you can’t miss

1. Launceston

Launceston is Tasmania’s second-largest city and one of Australia’s oldest. Its history is captured in the abundance of Colonial and Victorian architecture that adorns the streets. The city itself sits at the end of the Tamar Valley , a lush farming region renowned for producing some of the country's best food and wine. Spend the first day of your road trip finding your feet - explore the city’s many restaurants, bars and cultural attractions or go for a drive to the charming country towns that dot the area.

Just a 15-minute walk from the city centre is Cataract Gorge Reserve and the Scenic Chairlift. Wander around one of the many walking trails and admire the way the rugged gorge reflects off the placid South Esk River. Then take a ride on the Scenic Chairlift, famous for having the longest single chairlift span in the world (308m). Once you’ve finished, feel free to take a dip in the crystal clear public swimming pool if it’s a hot summer's day.

Closer to the town centre, you can tour one of Australia’s most popular beer breweries at the James Boag Brewery Experience. Over the course of 90-minutes, discover how James Boag immigrated 160 years ago from Scotland to the untamed wilds of Tasmania. Learn about the brewing process responsible for creating a range of award-winning beers and conclude your tour with a tasting of 3 of James Boag’s finest brews in the heritage-listed bar.

Finish your day at City Park, one of Launceston’s central thoroughfares. Built in 1820, the park is host to many beautiful gardens, a conservatory, duck pond, giant chess boards and more. However, it is perhaps most famous for its Japanese Macaque monkey enclosure which is free to the public.

Where to camp:

The Launceston Holiday Park offers both powered and unpowered campsites set amongst leafy parkland. It is suitable for all sorts of budgets and amenities include a clean bathroom block, camp kitchen, games room and much more.

Alternatively, the Discovery Park Hadspen is another great choice. It’s nestled in the foothills of the Tamar Valley and offers all the modern amenities you need.

If you’d like a free campsite, try Lilydale Falls. This campground only has basic amenities (public toilets and sheltered barbeques) but it’s suitable for caravans, campervans and RV’s. Only a 5-minute walk from the local waterfalls.

2. Bridport

Drive Time: 1hr | Distance: 74km

Kick-off your Tasmanian road trip with a very short and leisurely drive through the Tamar Valley to Bridport. This popular beachside town overlooks the waters of Anderson Bay and is surrounded by bushland. It’s the perfect place to take things easy as you catch some sun on the squeaky white sands or enjoy a vino from one of the local wineries. Be warned though, this place can get busy with tourists in summer.

The landscape around Bridport comes to life in the summer months (December - February) as wildflowers bloom in the Bridport Wildlife Reserve. Take an easy evening stroll around the 2.2km hard surface track which winds through throngs of native vegetation. Along the way, you’ll see over 180 plant species including heath, wetland, sedgeland and woodland flora.

If you are travelling during flower season (December - February), it’ll be hard to miss the vivid purple fields of lavender at the Bridestowe Lavender Estate. And even if you aren’t travelling in summer, you can still visit the Estate and walk through its beautiful ornamental gardens or try unique lavender-infused products from the cafe or gift shop (we recommend the lavender honey)!

Where to camp: The Bridport Seaside Caravan Park has a brilliant seaside location and offers modern amenities and camping sites with ocean views.

Alternatively, it’s free to camp at the Waterhouse Conservation Area. This is one of the best free camping spots in Tasmania (if not the world)! Right next to crystal clear waters and protected by native flora, this campground is a sight to behold. Toilets are provided and caravans/campervans can easily access the site.

3. Bicheno

Drive Time: 3hr 30min | Distance: 215km

As you make your way eastward around Tasmania to Bicheno, we recommend that you take the scenic route via the Bay of Fires. This route only adds an hour to today's drive but it is well worth it to see one of the world’s ‘hottest travel destinations' according to Lonely Planet. Eventually, you’ll end up in Bicheno - a small seaside holiday town known for its clear blue waters, red rocks and outstanding takeaway seafood. Don’t leave without trying the crayfish sandwiches.

Hire a sea kayak or a snorkel and paddle out to Governor Island , less than 100m off the beach at Bicheno. In the crystal clear waters, you’ll discover an amazing reef that is home to all sorts of marine life. Alternatively, you can keep yourself dry and take a glass-bottomed boat ride around the natural reserve.

If you can’t get enough of the local wildlife, why not visit one of Tasmania’s highest-rated animal experiences - the East Coast Natureworld Wildlife Park. The park consists of 150 acres of natural parkland and lagoons that provide the perfect ecosystem for wombats, Tasmanian devils, kangaroos, quolls, reptiles and more. Many of the animals have been rescued from road accidents and are raised until they are capable of fending for themselves in the wild.

Finally, every evening, right at dusk, one of the largest fairy penguin populations in Australia make their way from the water to their homes on the beach. Take one of the local fairy penguin tours to get up close to the penguins without disturbing their routine.

Where to camp:

The Seaview Holiday Park offers camping sites with stunning views over Waub’s Bay near Bicheno.

Alternatively, the North Cosy Corner is an hour north of Bicheno, located on the beach in the famous Bay of Fires.

Otherwise, you can always try Douglas River Cabins. This park has a flat and open space for self-contained camping. It also provides access to the beach and the Douglas River but only basic amenities are provided.

4. Freycinet National Park

Drive Time: 3hr 30min | Distance: 215km

Another short but scenic drive today from Bicheno to Freycinet National Park. However, you’re going to want a fair bit of time in the afternoon to explore all that Freycinet has to offer. This park is world-famous for its iconic sights - particularly the panoramic views over Wineglass Bay. Besides the popular lookout, there are also many other quieter beaches, bays and coves to explore.

The hike to the top of Wineglass Bay Lookout is relatively difficult and steep in places. It takes about 1.5 hours to complete the 2.6km return journey but the views are definitely worth it. In summer, thousands of tourists make the trek each day to see the crystal-clear waters and shiny white beach of Wineglass Bay. The track is fairly well-maintained but we recommend that you do it in either the early morning or afternoon and take plenty of breaks along the way.

If you’re after a much easier walk, try the Cape Tourville Lighthouse track. The circuit is only 600m long and should only take 20-minutes at most. Plus, the walkway is well constructed and accessible to everyone. Once you reach the lookout, you are rewarded with panoramic views over the Tasman Sea from this historic lighthouse.

Alternatively, Sleepy Bay is another easy walk for those who want something short and sweet. The 500m return track only takes 20-minutes but it does have a gentle staircase that leads down to the rocky shoreline of Sleep Bay. Again, this walk is well worth it as you are greeted with stunning views over the red-rocked beach and the turquoise waters of the bay.

Where to camp:

The BIG4 Freycinet Holiday Park Iluka offers a range of camping options set on a beautiful beachfront. Amenities include an on-site bakery, tavern, restaurant, supermarket and more.

Alternatively, the Freycinet National Park Campground provides basic powered and unpowered campsites with stunning views but very few amenities for $13 - $16 per night.

Image: Freycinet National Park taken by Jess Brooks featuringthis awesome campervan

5. Maria Island

Drive Time: 1hr 30min | Distance: 109km

On your way out of Freycinet National Park, stop at Freycinet Marine Farm for some fresh seafood. Continue South to Triabunna, where you can hop on a ferry to Maria Island. The 30-minute ferry ride leads you to the pristine World Heritage-listed National Park, which is home to kangaroos, wombats, wallabies, Tasmanian Devils and seals. Spend the day walking through grasslands, open forests, tall woodland and rocky slopes, one of the most unique landscapes you’ll ever experience! You will lose count of how many wombats you may see! Head back onto the mainland to stay the night.

There are a heap of excellent walking and cycling tracks around Maria Island , each specifically designed to show you a different aspect of the Island. Some of the shorter walks run through the ruins of Darlington, a penal colony established in 1825 to deal with overcrowding in Hobart. Alternatively, the Reservoir Circuit passes through open woodlands and towering eucalypt forests to give you a taste of both the Island’s wildlife and history.

Not far from the ferry, you’ll find the Fossil Cliffs. This old limestone quarry is covered in ancient fossils that are around 300 million years old. Take the opportunity to get up close and study the fascinating shapes and patterns that line the sheer sea cliffs. The sight is relatively easy to access via a short but steep track.

Where to camp:

The Triabunna Cabin and Caravan Park is a lush and laid-back little campground that offers a range of accommodation options at affordable prices.

Alternatively, the NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park is set on the calm waters of Stuarts Bay and surrounded by 40 acres of bushland, this holiday park is loaded with amenities and has even been inducted into the Tasmanian Tourism Hall of Fame!

Otherwise, you can set up camp at Eldee Campground (between Hobart and Port Arthur). This picturesque campground has modern and clean bathroom facilities, a fully equipped camp kitchen and campfires with cheap timber for sale.

6. Port Arthur

Drive Time: 1hr 30min | Distance: 109km

You’ve got a big day of adventure ahead, so get started as early as possible. Make your way south to Port Arthur and check out the Blow Hole at Eaglehawk Neck along the way.

The Port Arthur Historic Site is one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations and a must-do on any Tasmania road trip. Port Arthur was a 19th-century penal settlement infamous for its brutal treatment of convicts. It is now one of the world’s best open-air museums where you can explore the ruins of the penitentiary. Whilst there, make the most of the guided tours and take a cruise out to Cemetery Island where you can learn about the lives of those banished to this remote corner of the world.

After a few hours touring the Port Arthur Historic Site, make the trip back to Tasmania’s capital city - Hobart. Here, you can spend the afternoon exploring the city’s historic shops and storefronts (Pigeon Whole Bakers and Jackman & McRoss are a must!).

As the sun begins to set, make your way to Mt Wellington. Drive right to the top of the mountain for 360 panoramic views over Hobart and its beautiful surroundings. There’s no park fees or closing times - but wear warm clothing as it can get very windy and chilly.

Where to camp:

The Barilla Holiday Park is only a 15-minute drive from Hobart. This cosy holiday park has all types of camping options and even boasts a mini-golf course and restaurant on-site.

Alternatively, the Discovery Parks Hobart is a modern and affordable holiday park with campsites and a huge range of amenities.

Finally, the BIG4 Hobart Airport Tourist Park is only minutes away from Hobart Airport. This park provides a convenient location and family-friendly facilities like playgrounds and basketball courts.

7. Hobart & Bruny Island

Drive Time: 1hr 50min | Distance: 83km

Take your time waking up this morning because we’re in no rush! Why not spend a few more hours getting to know Hobart and its key attractions. Between 9.30 am and 3 pm every Saturday, over 230 stallholders host the Salamanca Market s on the water’s edge in Hobart. The market is world-famous and an experience all by itself. Pick up a hot coffee and a delicious brunch or grab some handmade gifts to take home to the family.

Alternatively, you can take a short ferry ride from Hobart to the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) on the banks of the Derwent River. This is Australia’s largest private museum and is internationally renowned for its weird and wonderful displays. Take a self-guided tour using handheld technology and finish with a drink at one of the wineries, breweries or bars on site.

Around midday, you can start making the short drive south to Bruny Island via the ferry. The afternoon and evening are then free to explore the island and its reputation for outstanding local produce. The Bruny Island Cheese Co and Bruny Island Berry Farm are two favourites amongst foodies.

The north and south of Bruny Island are joined by a small scrap of land only 100 metres wide, known as the Bruny Island Neck. On one side, rough surf pounds the beach and on the other is a calm bay. Climb the well-constructed walkway to Truganini Lookout at the top of the dunes for stunning 360-views of the Island Neck.

If you’re after something a little more challenging, the Cape Queen Elizabeth track is 12km walk long and takes about 3 hours to complete. Along the way, you’ll pass through dense bushland, make your way over tall dunes and walk along an isolated beach whilst ducking in and out of small rocky crevices. Perhaps the most popular sight is the odd-looking rock archway at Mars Bluff.

Where to camp:

The Neck Reserve Camping Area on the Neck of Bruny Island is sheltered by dunes on one side and open to the ocean on the other. Basic amenities are provided for only $10 per night.

Alternatively, Snug Beach Cabin and Caravan Park offers beachfront camping between Hobart and Bruny Island. The site is well maintained with landscaped gardens and full amenities.

Otherwise, Captain Cook Holiday Park is another beachfront park located on the southern end of Bruny Island. It has a range of campsite options and clean facilities.

8. Ross

Drive Time: 6hr | Distance: 400km

Today you’ve got a long day of driving ahead as you make your way from the beautiful Bruny Island to the equally magnificent Cradle Mountain. However, along the way, you’ll cross paths with plenty of wondrous sights and have more than a few opportunities to stretch your legs.

Head to Cradle Mountain via the historic township of Ross. This little riverside village is as pretty as they come. It was built by convicts in the early 1800’s and is one of the best-preserved pieces of history in Tasmania. Take a wander down its cobble-style paths and watch how the sun reflects off the magnificent old elm trees that line the road. Then stop and admire the Ross Bridge, the third oldest bridge in Australia. The carvings by the convict stonemason are so beautiful that the work won the men their freedom from servitude.

Alternatively, you could take the road to Pine Lake Walk. The Lake is home to one of Tasmania’s rarest and oldest plants - the ghost-white pencil pine. The 800m return walk around Pine Lake is very easy and only takes 30 minutes to complete.

**Where to camp: ** The Discovery Park Caravan Park Cradle Mountain is one of the only camping grounds in the area, this park is set on the edge of the National Park and has all the amenities you need for a comfortable night's stay.

9. Cradle Mountain

Make the most of your day off and arrive early at the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre to purchase your National Parks pass. A shuttle bus will then take you from the centre into the National Park. The Park forms part of the UNESCO listed Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, which spans over 1 million hectares. The site received its World Heritage status due to its remarkable temperate rainforest which was once covered by ancient ice glaciers. Plus, evidence in the Park’s limestone caves suggests that humans have lived in the area for around 20,000 years!

The most popular walking track is Dove Lake Circuit. This 6km circuit around Dove Lake is moderately difficult and takes about 2-3 hours. It is regarded as one of the best walks in Tasmania thanks to its stunning scenery. On one side you look up at the colossal Cradle Mountain whilst on the other, you can see your reflection in the dark waters of Dove Lake. Before returning to the starting point, the walk also takes you through a small stretch of the remarkable temperate rainforest.

For some downtime in the afternoon, visit Devils at Cradle. This world-class wildlife conservation facility is another of Tasmania’s highest-rated animal experiences. Set within the grounds of the pristine Cradle Mountain National Park, this is the best place to see Tasmanian Devils and their closely related ancestor - the Quoll. You can either do a self-guided tour at your own pace or take a guided tour for an opportunity to interact face to face with the baby animals. Plus, stick around in the evening for an after-dark feeding tour. The best part is that all fees go to the centre’s conservation efforts.

10. West Coast

Drive Time: 2hr 20min | Distance: 139km

Today, you bring your Tasmania road trip to an end with a short 2-hour drive east to Launceston. After 10 days of adventure, you’ll probably be ready for a rest, so feel free to whittle away the afternoon in the shady parks around Launceston before catching your flight home.

Otherwise, you can always extend your Tasmania road trip and explore the island's stunning West Coast. If you do this, we highly recommend that you check out the West Coast Wilderness Railway and Macquarie Harbour in the town of Strahan. Also, be sure to take a walk through the amazing Table Cape Tulip Farm near Stanley.

Organise your Tasmania road trip with Camplify

Now that you’ve got your Tasmania road trip itinerary sorted, it’s time to start organising the finer details!

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Want to see what’s on offer? Check out some of the best Camplify camper vehicles available for hire in Tasmania right now, including Little Miss Sunshine (Launceston), Easy Drive Luxe (New Town), Seabird Campervan (Launceston) and Easy Attitude (Lawitta).